RTM Will Call It ‘Swine Flu’ – Rais

(Bernama) — Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) will continue to use the term 'swine flu' instead of influenza A (H1N1), said Information, Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim.

Denying that the term would cause confusion, he said 'swine flu' was easier for the people, including those in the rural areas, to digest despite the Health Ministry's stand of using the term 'influenza A (H1N1)'.

"The issue does not arise at all. What matter most, the people understand that it is swine flu and not elephant flu… if H1N1 is used (by the Health Ministry), RTM will use swine flu.

"We have discussed this matter and internationally it is known as H1N1 but in Malaysia we will use the term 'swine flu'. This is to ensure that the people understand the meaning," he said after attending the full rehearsal for the launching of 1Malaysia logo and song at Dataran Merdeka here tonight.

On the launching of the logo and song, Rais said he was satisfied with the preparation for the event that set to become the biggest assembly of participants in the history of the country.

He said the organiser had assembled 10,700 participants from various races including ethnic groups from Sabah and Sarawak, government agencies, non-government organisations, members of parliament and students.

"The 1Malaysia logo and song, which will be launched tomorrow, will herald a new era in the history of the administration and struggle of the Malaysian race.

"And for the first time, the 1Malaysia concept and practice will be a symbol that will be assimilated tomorrow," he added.

The event will be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.